The 2026 calendar provides an exceptional range of conferences for those who study or teach psychology, cognitive science, or behavioral research, spanning Europe, North America, South America, Asia-Pacific, and Australia. In this regard, this comprehensive guide is essential, as it helps you navigate the schedule, identify key themes (for instance, the impact of AI on cognition and the role of applied psychology in societal trust), and meet critical submission deadlines. Finally, for in-person attendees, it is recommended that you explore options for sabbatical housing or short-term rentals in these host cities.
General & Foundational Psychology: The Premier International Gatherings
These comprehensive conferences span multiple areas of psychological science and represent the field’s largest, most influential gatherings.
Asian Conference on Psychology & the Behavioral Sciences (ACP2026)
The ACP2026 event offers flexible participation options for international attendees while also facilitating in-depth discussions of psychological and behavioral science research, with particular attention to Asian contexts and cross-cultural perspectives. The conference welcomes research across all areas of psychology and behavioral sciences.
- Date: March 22–27, 2026
- Location: Tokyo, Japan
- Social Media: X/Twitter: @iafor
- Hashtags: #ACP2026, #BehavioralSciences
Association for Psychological Science (APS) Annual Convention
The APS Annual Convention is the premier international venue for fundamental, experimental psychological science. In 2026, it shifts to Europe for the first time, introducing thousands of researchers across all major foundational areas including biological/neuroscience, cognitive, clinical science, developmental, social, and industrial/organizational psychology. The convention features cutting-edge research presentations, workshops, and networking opportunities focused on global exchange and new perspectives.
- Date: May 28–30, 2026
- Location: Barcelona, Spain
- Social Media: X/Twitter: @psychscience | Facebook: @psychologicalscience
- Hashtags: #APS2026, #PsychologicalScience
Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) National Convention
The CPA National Convention brings together Canadian and international psychologists for broad coverage of key themes including informing public policy, exploring life stages, understanding the mind and brain, and improving and promoting health. With pre-convention workshops beginning June 3, the convention offers extensive professional development opportunities alongside research presentations and networking events.
- Date: June 4–6, 2026
- Location: Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Social Media: Facebook: @CPA.SCP | Instagram: @canadianpsychological
- Hashtags: #CPA2026, #CanadianPsychology
American Psychological Association (APA) Convention
The largest general gathering for U.S. psychology practice and research, the APA Convention brings together tens of thousands of psychologists, students, and mental health professionals. With hundreds of sessions spanning all areas of psychology—from clinical practice to cutting-edge research—the convention offers unparalleled opportunities for professional development, networking, and staying current with the field’s latest advances.
- Date: August 6–8, 2026
- Location: Washington, DC, USA
- Social Media: X/Twitter: @apa | Facebook: @AmericanPsychologicalAssociation
- Hashtags: #APAConvention2026, #APA26
Cognitive Science & Neuroscience
These conferences focus on the mind, brain, and computational approaches to understanding cognition and behavior.
Cognitive Neuroscience Society (CNS) Annual Meeting
A key early-year meeting for research on the neural bases of cognition and behavior, the CNS Annual Meeting attracts neuroscientists, cognitive psychologists, and neuroimaging researchers. The conference features symposia, poster sessions, and workshops focused on cutting-edge methods and findings in cognitive neuroscience.
Keynote Speaker: Peter Hagoort, Director of the Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, will deliver the keynote address. Dr. Hagoort’s research focuses on the neurocognitive mechanisms of language and has made fundamental contributions to understanding how the brain processes language.
- Date: March 7–10, 2026
- Location: Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Social Media: X/Twitter: @cogneuronews | Facebook: @cogneurosociety
- Hashtags: #CNS2026, #CognitiveNeuroscience
Cognitive Science Society (CogSci 2026) Conference
The CogSci conference is a vital hub for research at the intersection of psychology, computation, linguistics, and AI. The 2026 meeting reflects the society’s commitment to serving and mobilizing emerging cognitive science communities globally. Presentations span cognitive development, language processing, computational modeling, artificial intelligence, and the neural basis of cognition.
- Date: July 22–25, 2026
- Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Website: X/Twitter: @cogsci_soc | Facebook: @cognitivesciencesociety
- Hashtags: #CogSci2026, #CognitiveScience
Developmental Psychology
These conferences focus on psychological development across the lifespan, from infancy through adulthood.
Society for Personality and Social Psychology (SPSP) Annual Convention
The world’s largest organization of social and personality psychologists, SPSP brings together over 3,500 researchers, educators, and students for cutting-edge research presentations, targeted professional development workshops, and extensive networking opportunities. In addition to its main sessions, the convention features specialized preconferences on topics such as sustainability psychology, emotion research, judgment and decision-making, and LGBTIQ+ research across the globe. With engaging symposia, data blitzes, and poster sessions, SPSP represents where the future of social and personality psychological science takes shape.
Keynote Speakers: The convention features notable preconference keynote addresses, including India Johnson for the Gender Preconference and Lisa Diamond, who will speak on “Connection as Resistance” at the LGBTIQ+ Preconference.
- Date: February 26–28, 2026
- Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Social Media: X/Twitter: @SPSPnews | Facebook: @SPSP.org
- Hashtags: #SPSP2026, #SocialPsychology
Cognitive Development Society (CDS) Biennial Meeting
The Cognitive Development Society brings together researchers and practitioners interested in change and continuity in the intellectual processes that support mental life. This biennial meeting provides a unified voice for scholars studying cognitive development across the lifespan, with particular emphasis on developmental mechanisms, learning processes, and the integration of cognitive development research with practice.
- Date: April 9–11, 2026
- Location: Montréal, Canada
- Social Media: X/Twitter: @cogdevsoc
- Hashtags: #CDS2026, #CognitiveDevelopment
International Society for the Study of Behavioural Development (ISSBD) Biennial Meeting
The ISSBD Biennial Meeting is a premier international gathering for researchers studying behavioral development across cultures and contexts. This multidisciplinary conference brings together developmental scientists from psychology, education, anthropology, and related fields to share research on social, emotional, cognitive, and biological aspects of human development from infancy through adulthood.
- Date: June 21–25, 2026
- Location: Incheon, South Korea
- Social Media: Facebook: @ISSBD | Instagram: @issbdorg
- Hashtags: #ISSBD2026, #DevelopmentalScience
PsyCon Rome – International Conference on Psychology & Psychiatry
This PsyCon Rome international conference provides a platform for researchers, practitioners, and professionals from academia, industry, and government to exchange knowledge and insights on current developments in psychology and psychiatry. The conference welcomes interdisciplinary research spanning clinical practice, mental health interventions, and psychological theory, with sessions conducted primarily in English alongside vernacular sessions for non-English speakers.
- Date: September 14–15, 2026
- Location: Rome, Italy
- Social Media: Facebook: @eurasiaresearch
- Hashtags: #PsyConRome2026, #InternationalPsychology
Applied Psychology: Real-World Impact & Societal Change
These conferences emphasize how psychological science addresses pressing social challenges, from workplace wellbeing to democratic values.
European Conference on Positive Psychology (ECPP)
Promoting positive psychology aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—specifically Good Health and Wellbeing—ECPP brings together researchers and practitioners focused on human flourishing, resilience, and wellbeing. The conference explores evidence-based approaches to enhancing positive functioning at individual, organizational, and societal levels.
Keynote Speakers: The event will feature an impressive roster of leading scholars and researchers, including Ryan Niemiec, Rose Anne Kenny, Andrew Steptoe, Shigehiro Oishi, Sara Ascenso, John Cryan, Michael West, Dortota Węziak-Białowolska, Christian van Nieuwerburgh, and Meike Bartels.
- Date: July 1-4, 2026
- Location: Dublin, Ireland
- Social Media: Facebook: @EuropeanNetworkforPositivePsychology
- Hashtags: #ECPP2026, #PositivePsychology
International Congress of Applied Psychology (ICAP 2026)
This quadrennial flagship meeting of the International Association of Applied Psychology (IAAP) is the leading global venue for research demonstrating societal impact. The 2026 theme, “New Directions in Applied Psychology,” places strong emphasis on societal applications including well-being, sustainable development, and trust—recovering conditions of hope, responsibility, and democratic values. With thousands of attendees from around the world, ICAP offers unparalleled opportunities to engage with applied psychology’s role in addressing global challenges.
Keynote Speakers: The conference will feature a distinguished lineup of innovative leaders. Starting the event are Cass R. Sunstein, the renowned behavioral economist, alongside the distinguished Sir Cary Cooper and Kazuhiko Takeuchi. Finishing the circuit are influential experts David Blustein, Fanny M. Cheung, and Marc A. Rosen.
- Date: July 21–25, 2026
- Location: Florence, Italy
- Social Media: Facebook: @icap2026 | Instagram: @icap2026
- Hashtags: #ICAP2026, #AppliedPsychology
Asian Conference on Applied Psychology (ACAP 2026)
ACAP 2026 focuses on the practical applications of psychological research in Asian contexts, covering topics such as mental health interventions, educational psychology, organizational behavior, and community psychology. This hybrid conference enables both in-person and virtual participation.
- Date: July 30–31, 2026
- Location: Singapore
- Social Media: Instagram: @acapearcomsg
- Hashtags: #ACAP2026, #AppliedPsychologyAsia
Industrial, Organizational & Workplace Psychology
These specialized conferences focus on the application of psychological science to work, organizations, and employee wellbeing.
British Psychological Society (BPS) Division of Occupational Psychology (DOP) Annual Conference
Themed “Science and Practice: Real Talk on What Works,” this specialized BPS conference brings together occupational psychology researchers and practitioners to discuss evidence-based approaches to workplace psychology. The conference emphasizes practical applications of psychological science in organizational settings, covering topics such as employee wellbeing, organizational development, and workplace interventions.
- Date: January 14–16, 2026
- Location: Cardiff, Wales, UK
- Social Media: X/Twitter: @BPSOfficial | Facebook: @OfficialBPS
- Hashtags: #BPSDOP2026, #OccupationalPsychology
Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) Annual Conference
The premier professional gathering in industrial-organizational psychology, SIOP’s annual conference brings together experts, researchers, and practitioners from around the world to exchange ideas and further the science and practice of workplace psychology. The 41st annual conference emphasizes innovation, networking, and cutting-edge research across all areas of I-O psychology. With engaging workshops, thought-provoking panel discussions, and the latest research presentations, SIOP remains the conference of choice for anyone interested in organizational behavior, employee wellbeing, and evidence-based workplace practices.
- Date: April 29–May 2, 2026
- Location: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
- Social Media: X/Twitter: @SIOPtweets | Facebook: @siop.org
- Hashtags: #SIOP2026, #IOPsychology
European Academy of Occupational Health Psychology (EAOHP) Conference
Themed “Mental health at work: From research to policy and practice,” the EAOHP 2026 Conference brings together an international, multidisciplinary community of researchers and practitioners focused on occupational health psychology.
Keynote Speakers: Jari Hakanen and Sabine Sonnentag will deliver oral and poster presentations and chair invited symposia addressing workplace mental health, wellbeing interventions, and the application of research in organizational settings.
- Date: June 15–17, 2026
- Location: Helsinki, Finland
- Social Media: X/Twitter: @ea_ohp | Facebook: @eaohp
- Hashtags: #EAOHP2026, #OccupationalHealth
APS Industrial and Organisational Psychology Conference
The Australian Psychological Society’s I/O Psychology Conference explores the latest research and practice in workplace psychology, organizational behavior, and human resource management. This specialized conference attracts researchers and practitioners focused on evidence-based approaches to organizational effectiveness and employee wellbeing.
- Date: October 29–31, 2026
- Location: Melbourne, Australia
- Social Media: X/Twitter: @austpsych | Facebook: @AustralianPsychologicalSociety
- Hashtags: #APSIO2026, #OrganisationalPsychology
Clinical Psychology, Psychiatry & Neuropsychology
These conferences center on clinical practice, mental health treatment, and neuropsychological assessment and intervention.
American Psychiatric Association (APA) Annual Meeting
Focused on clinical practice, research, and advances in psychiatry, the APA Annual Meeting is the largest gathering of psychiatric professionals in the United States. The meeting features hundreds of sessions covering the latest developments in psychiatric treatment, diagnosis, and research, along with exhibits showcasing new technologies and therapeutic approaches.
- Date: May 16–20, 2026
- Location: San Francisco, California, USA
- Social Media: X/Twitter: @APAPsychiatric | Facebook: @AmericanPsychiatricAssociation
- Hashtags: #APAMeeting2026, #Psychiatry
APS College of Clinical Neuropsychologists Conference
This specialized APS event focuses on clinical neuropsychology and innovative practice, bringing together clinicians and researchers working at the intersection of neuroscience and clinical psychology. Topics include neuropsychological assessment, rehabilitation, and emerging approaches to treating neurological and neurodevelopmental conditions.
- Date: September 19–21, 2026
- Location: Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- Social Media: X/Twitter: @austpsych | Facebook: @AustralianPsychologicalSociety
- Hashtags: #APSClinNeuro2026, #Neuropsychology
Frequently Asked Questions About Academic Psychology Conferences
1. When should I start preparing my conference submission?
Most major psychology conferences have abstract deadlines 4-6 months before the event. For 2026 conferences, many deadlines fall in late 2025 (October-December). Start planning your research presentation at least 2-3 months before the deadline to allow time for drafting, feedback from advisors, and revisions. Early preparation also increases your chances of securing university travel funding.
2. What’s the difference between a poster session and a talk at psychology conferences?
Poster sessions allow for more interactive, one-on-one discussions with attendees who stop by your display during designated sessions. Talks (oral presentations) are typically 15-20 minutes with Q&A, delivered to a seated audience in a formal session. Posters are excellent for graduate students and early-career researchers to get comfortable with conference presentations, while talks often showcase more developed or high-impact research.
3. How do I maximize my time at a large conference with hundreds of concurrent sessions?
Large conferences like APA or APS can be overwhelming with parallel sessions. Review the program 1-2 weeks ahead and create a personalized schedule, but build in buffer time—you’ll want flexibility for spontaneous conversations or discovering unexpected sessions. Prioritize 2-3 “must-see” presentations per day rather than cramming your schedule. Use coffee breaks and meals strategically for networking. Don’t feel obligated to attend every session; sometimes the most valuable conference experiences happen in informal hallway conversations or at poster sessions where you can have extended discussions with researchers.
4. What should I pack and prepare for an international psychology conference?
Beyond the basics (passport, adapters, comfortable shoes), bring business cards, printed copies of your poster or slides as backup, and a notebook for taking notes on presentations. Prepare a 30-second “elevator pitch” about your research for networking. Download the conference app and pre-schedule must-see sessions. For international travel, check visa requirements early and consider travel insurance.
5. Should I attend preconferences or workshops, and are they worth the extra cost?
Preconferences and workshops offer intensive, focused learning on specialized topics with smaller groups and more interaction than typical conference sessions. They’re especially valuable for skill-building (e.g., statistical methods, neuroimaging techniques, specific assessment tools) or deep dives into emerging areas. Many early-career researchers find preconferences excellent for networking since they allow extended interaction with leaders in the field. Consider attending if the topic directly enhances your research methods or if you’re exploring a new area—the investment often pays off in skills and connections.
6. What funding opportunities exist for psychology graduate students to attend conferences?
Universities typically offer graduate student travel grants through departments, graduate schools, or research centers—apply early as funds are limited. Organizations like APS, APA, SPSP, and SIOP offer student travel awards or registration discounts. Check if your advisor’s research grants include conference travel budgets. Some conferences offer diversity scholarships or fee waivers for students from underrepresented groups.
Related: Higher Education & Travel Grants
7. Is short-term housing through SabbaticalHomes a good option for conference travel?
Yes, especially for conferences lasting four or more days, or if you’re combining the trip with research collaborations. In these cases, SabbaticalHomes listings often provide furnished apartments with kitchens and workspaces—offering a more comfortable and sometimes more affordable alternative to hotels, particularly in expensive cities.
Many hosts are academics themselves who understand conference schedules and research needs.
Search by destination and filter by date range and those listings that are available “weekly” versus “monthly” to compare stays. You can browse listings near the conference venue, communicate directly with the host, and arrange flexible dates suited to your travel plan.
Related: Getting Started on SabbaticalHomes
Comprehensive Global Calendar: 2026 Academic Psychology Conferences
| Conference | Acronym | Date | Location | Focus Area |
| British Psychological Society DOP Annual Conference | BPS DOP | January 14–16, 2026 | Cardiff, Wales, UK | Occupational Psychology |
| Society for Personality and Social Psychology Annual Convention | SPSP | February 26–28, 2026 | Chicago, IL, USA | Social & Personality Psychology |
| Cognitive Neuroscience Society Annual Meeting | CNS | March 7–10, 2026 | Vancouver, BC, Canada | Cognitive Neuroscience |
| Asian Conference on Psychology & the Behavioral Sciences | ACP | March 22–27, 2026 | Tokyo, Japan | General Psychology & Behavioral Sciences |
| Cognitive Development Society Biennial Meeting | CDS | April 9–11, 2026 | Montréal, QC, Canada | Cognitive Development |
| Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology Annual Conference | SIOP | April 29–May 2, 2026 | New Orleans, LA, USA | Industrial & Organizational Psychology |
| American Psychiatric Association Annual Meeting | APA (Psychiatric) | May 16–20, 2026 | San Francisco, CA, USA | Clinical Psychiatry & Research |
| Association for Psychological Science Annual Convention | APS | May 28–30, 2026 | Barcelona, Spain | Foundational Psychological Science |
| Canadian Psychological Association National Convention | CPA | June 4–6, 2026 | Montréal, QC, Canada | General Research & Public Policy |
| European Academy of Occupational Health Psychology Conference | EAOHP | June 15–17, 2026 | Helsinki, Finland | Occupational Health Psychology |
| International Society for the Study of Behavioural Development Biennial Meeting | ISSBD | June 21–25, 2026 | Incheon, South Korea | Developmental Science |
| European Conference on Positive Psychology | ECPP | July 1-4, 2026 | Dublin, Ireland | Positive Psychology & Wellbeing |
| International Congress of Applied Psychology | ICAP | July 21–25, 2026 | Florence, Italy | Applied Psychology & Societal Impact |
| Cognitive Science Society Conference | CogSci | July 22–25, 2026 | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | Cognitive Science & AI |
| Asian Conference on Applied Psychology | ACAP | July 30–31, 2026 | Singapore | Applied Psychology |
| American Psychological Association Convention | APA | August 6–8, 2026 | Washington, DC, USA | General U.S. Psychology & Practice |
| PsyCon Rome – International Conference on Psychology & Psychiatry | PsyCon Rome | September 14–15, 2026 | Rome, Italy | Psychology & Psychiatry |
| APS College of Clinical Neuropsychologists Conference | APS Clinical Neuro | September 19–21, 2026 | Hobart, Tasmania, Australia | Clinical Neuropsychology |
| APS Industrial & Organisational Psychology Conference | APS I/O | October 29–31, 2026 | Melbourne, Australia | Industrial & Organisational Psychology |
Our “Conference Alert” series of articles will keep you in-the-know about upcoming academic conventions and conferences. Each article in this series previews deadlines for abstracts and proposals for a specific area of study. Conferences are great opportunities to network, meet others who study in your field and perhaps help you make a connection for a research or sabbatical travel experience.
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